A total of 301 patients who tested positive for Influenza A (H1N1) and 255 others who displayed influenza-like illness (ILI) were admitted to the hospital today.

NONE Health director-general Dr Mohd Ismail Merican said, of the total H1N1 cases, 55 patients were being treated at the intensive care unit while nine were new cases.

"Of the 55 patients, 38 are from the high-risk group comprising those with chronic diseases, respiratory problems, morbid obesity, pregnant women and new mothers, children and senior citizen," he said in a statement here today.

Mohd Ismail said no new death was reported and the death toll due to H1N1 in the country remained at 73.

A total of 1,198 ILI patients are undergoing treatment at 111 hospitals nationwide.

Get antiviral treatment immediately

Meanwhile, Dr Mohd Ismail urged those with H1N1 symptoms to get antiviral treatment at the nearest clinic or hospital immediately.

He also advised the public to take extra precaution to prevent infections, especially when going shopping during the coming Aidilfitri celebrations.

More information on the H1N1 updates can be obtained by contacting the hotline at 03-8881 0200 or 03-8881 0300, or via this website.

- Bernama